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Banding together brotherhood bond and business partnership

Steve Newman, Kevin Newman, and Curtis Newman are three brothers who uprooted their lives in Iowa and settled in an unfamiliar place to purchase and take over two, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® franchises.

The trio took ownership of two franchises in San Antonio and spontaneously moved to Texas. Only Steve had lived in Texas, and for one year prior. Curtis and Kevin’s move to Texas marked the first time they’ve lived outside of Iowa.

“It was a little bit of a culture shock when we first arrived in San Antonio,” said Curtis. We are just starting to realize how hot the summers can be in Texas.”

The brothers quickly realized taking over a franchise brings many unique challenges and obstacles.

“Combining both franchises took some time,” said Kevin. “We are very excited to spend more time running the franchises now that we are past most of the legal work involving the transfers.”

Taking over the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® franchises has been a one-of-a-kind experience, but owning a business with siblings brings unique challenges, too. Steve, Curtis, and Kevin’s most evident challenge was dividing duties among the three of them.

“We all want to be involved in every aspect of the business to help each other complete tasks even though we know that is not feasible,” said Steve. “Only recently have we been able to find ways to segregate duties while still providing the necessary support on bigger issues. Another big challenge of working with my brothers was keeping things professional all of the time. As an older brother, it is my responsibility to tease my younger siblings relentlessly. It took a lot more willpower than I expected that first month to keep my light hearted jabs behind closed doors.”

Curtis also brought up a unique challenge.

“It’s difficult to refrain from talking about work when the three of us get together outside the office,” said Curtis.

Recently, the Newmans overcame one of their biggest challenges and split their positions into various roles. Curtis has a background in sales and now handles sales and marketing, Steve has a legal background and the most knowledge about owning a business and is in charge of the company’s finances. Kevin oversees operations and has the most knowledge of DOT regulations. It’s important to separate work into areas that best fit each business partner’s background and appropriately highlights their skills.

While working with family members brings its own challenges, there are many rewards, too. Working with family is unique because you have complete trust in your partners, and you have a support system backing you up when you make important decisions for the company. Steve, Curtis, and Kevin are all confident they will succeed as TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® franchisees, which is extremely exciting for them to share their optimism with their families.

The Newman’s number one piece of advice for family members considering running a business together would be to separate out your work and business life. It’s easy to get caught up in work conversations at family functions, birthday parties, and other gatherings when you are together outside of work. If you are able to create a balance you, along with your family, will be much happier!

Curtis, Steve, and Kevin are superstars! We are ecstatic to have them as part of the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® family. To learn more franchisee stories like the Newman’s, subscribe to our blog.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® has franchises in 39 states, and has experienced 66 straight months of growth and 50 consecutive months of record growth. Come on, invest in us! If you are interested in receiving franchising information, visit: twomenandatruckfranchising.com.